'Drive for show, but putt for dough' is the phrase we've all seen and learned from watching professional golfers in every tournament and championship either live or on TV.

The masters of golf can drive a ball from here to eternity, but it all boils down to how many strikes of the ball it takes to put the ball in the hole. The long accurate drives don't amount to anything if you're unable to putt the ball accurately.

Your choice of putter is very important, but using the putter you have consistently, is even more so. I've had the same putter for fifteen years, so I know what it feels like in my hand, I know it's weight and I know how that plays into my putts.

Now putting takes a huge amount of practice. Think about this: we drive the ball roughly eighteen times a game (once per hole), but putt at least twice that amount. So, surely it make sense to practice putting at least twice as much as driving? Therefore, if you just can't get to the practice green that often, you could practice on your carpet at home.

Bear in mind that the ball can not make it to the hole, if it doesn't have enough power behind it to get it in there. So, take the time to get down on your knees and look at the path from your ball to the hole. Does it slope one way or the other? Does it run uphill or downhill?

Stand with your feet spread for balance and line up the putt. Keep you hands, arms and shoulders completely still. Imagine that you are a "bobble head" but you move from just below your chest. Keep your head directly over the ball. Pull your club back; keep your hands, wrists, arms and shoulders steady - the movement comes from your chest. Hit the ball, following it through with your club.

Learn from each putt and remember the lesson. Practice, practice, practice!

Are you new to golf? We have some great tips for the beginner golfer at golfing tips for Beginners Also published at Golfing Tips For Beginners: 5.

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